This book has become my favorite by A.L. Sowards. I loved how she interweaves history with fiction.

Before the Fortresses Falls had me on the edge of my seat from the get go. I knew next to nothing about the Battle of Vienna, but by the end of the book I was doing my own deep dive into. That’s how much this book peaked my interest about it.

The characters in this book were great! I enjoyed seeing their character development as we read about the events of the battle from their perspectives. Although, I will there were times where I could careless about some of the point of views. But that’s just how I get when I read a book with multiple point of views.

This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster but it is definitely worth it.

Wow! I mean… just, wow! I am wiping tears as I finished this book and knew I had to write my review right away.
This book is one that will stick with me. The historical accuracy is absolutely amazing, it made it so intriguing to follow the characters through such a terrible and heartbreaking war.
I loved the romance that entwined itself through the awful fighting and death of the siege of Vienna. It gave me hope to cling to, and brought light in the darkest of times. I cried multiple times through this book, because the author truly made me feel like I was a part of this story, and I felt the anguish and devastation of those who suffered. I wish I could put into words everything my heart is feeling after finishing, but I guess I will just have to say that this is one book that I think all should read and everyone can enjoy. The writing is flawless and once you get into the story, you will not want to put it down. 5 stars and two thumbs way up for this beautiful book!

When a book grabs your attention from the very beginning, you know the author knows what she is doing! A. L. Sowards is one of those authors. This book is loaded with family conflict, invasion, war, loss also hope, faith, forgiveness, compassion, rekindled relationships and love. The authors research and historical aspects are impressive. The characters intriguing and inspiring. A beautiful story that moves you through all emotions. You feel drained and yet rejuvenated. My heart goes out to all who are going through or have gone through, the conflicts of war and the destruction of lives that come from it. A story of fiction that revolves around historical events and people, I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Wow! What an incredible story! I didn’t want to set this book down. I wanted to just stay in the story and read it straight through in one sitting. Unfortunately my schedule wasn’t such that I could do so. Which found me picking it up for a few minutes here and there and for some longer stretches in the evening. But I really enjoyed every minute of it!

Such an inspiring story. These characters loved their city and their family and were willing to sacrifice everything to protect against the approaching Ottoman Empire.

I loved the different character points of view that the author wrote into the story. It added so much depth and understanding. Wilhem, Katja and Xavier are siblings, and all three had moments of being the narrator. I loved it so much seeing their thoughts and feelings. Being able to understand their motivations for their actions, past and present. It had me hoping that they would be able to be reunited as some point in the story to right their misunderstandings.

There is also another character whom we are able to see his point of view. Ahmed is a Turkish soldier who is part of the Ottomon army and coming to lay siege on Vienna. Having his POV was very interesting and had me thinking about war from different perspectives.

And the last character whom we get to read through his POV is Toby, a childhood friend of Katja and Xavier’s. He is used in the war efforts of protecting the city as a counter miner. Wow! So interesting. Hard job and one I would definitely not want to have to do.

I admit there were so many emotions that I felt while reading this book. The anxiety and concern for all these characters and side characters as they are preparing to protect their lives. The excitement of characters reuniting. The nerves for characters trying to negotiate for help. The sadness and sorrow of saying goodbye to family members and the unknown of what is happening to them. The intensity of reading about the battles and skirmishes as they happened and hoping that the characters could keep their hold and protection of the city. Relief of the successes of the army protecting Vienna. Tears for the losses and goodbyes. Tears for the happy moments that came amidst the struggles and trials. Feelings of gratitude for my freedoms. Feelings of hope and inspiration from the many characters who sacrificed and wore themselves to the bone to do all that they could in the war efforts.

With all the war and conflict and fears and struggles these characters experience, there is a respite for the reader with a sweet love story. I loved watching Katja and Toby and the support they received in their friendship that grows to more. We all need hope in moments that seem there is none. But the hope that kept those protecting Vienna doing all they could to save the city, was very inspiring. I couldn’t help but feel it very strongly while reading this book.

Content: This book is clean. But there is a disclaimer that it does contain scenes and images and moments of warfare. There are battles and explosions and sword fights, shooting, hand to hand combat and there is death and destruction. The author wasn’t overly graphic but there are some scenes that there is description of blood and death. If this is a trigger for you then know this is in here.

I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

This is set during the siege of Vienna in 1683. I loved that Sowards used multiple narrators to tell the story and to add different perspectives to the story - the effort to bring in reinforcements, the day to day combat to protect the wall and the city, the underground work to thwart the Turkish miners, and the work many were involved in inside the city to care for the sick and wounded. I love how Sowards weaves fictional characters with actual people. She beautifully weaves together historical accounts with the stories of the characters she created.
I loved the juxtaposition of Katja and Toby finding love and the battle to save Vienna. It's a beautiful reminder that there is hope to be found in our darkest moments. And I love the beautiful reminder that our source of hope is Christ - that He died for us and was resurrected for us and that because of Him we will find peace after we die.
I love this book. Sowards is a master of historical fiction! I highly recommend it!

I had a hard time getting into this book. I couldn't finish it. It might have gotten better as it went on, but it didn't grab me enough to keep reading it.

"You keep working, and you keep praying. Grip your hope tightly and don't let it go. Clouds may darken it, may blot it out completely, but it's worth holding on to, even when you can't feel it or see it."
This book made me feel all of the emotions. It takes place during the Siege of Vienna in 1529. It is seen through the eyes of 3 siblings, a friend, and a foe. The author did an amazing job of using what happened and bringing it to life. I'm amazed at the research that went into this, as well as, the ability to make the reader feel like they were there. Watching a battle play out, and caring deeply for the characters involved, this book will stay with me. I appreciated so much the theme of holding on to hope even when things seem hopeless; the beauty of a community of people working together, defending their homes; and the treasure of love that shines brightly in our relationships. You won't want to miss this moving story.

Absolutely outstanding! I love historical fiction, but this story is definitely now at the top of my favorites in that genre! I love being able to get some many perspectives from all the main characters. Having the story told that way really helped it come alive for me. I absolutely adored Toby and Xavier and Katja! Their interactions and characters arcs are beautiful! I also loved the myriad of lessons that were subtly woven into this story. I cried, I smiled, and I laughed. This story has it all, but it is truly heartbreaking in a good way. I truly think this should be on every historical fiction lover's tbr pile!

This books has so many elements.
*History of a battle that kind of makes you connect the dots with what is going on in our world right now.
*A childhood friendship that becomes renewed during such hard times but is still able to turn into love.
*Family differences that cause a rift but is repaired over the fight one thing, freedom and their love of Vienna.
This fictional novel is about three siblings doing their part in the Battle of Vienna. I enjoyed the history that surrounds the book. Learned many new words. I am so grateful that there is a Useful Terms page! Also the map in the beginning was beautifully done and it helped me visualize what was going on in the story. I would definitely recommend this book to historical fiction enthusiasts. A.L. Sowards does a beautiful job at this.

I have always been a fan of historical fiction. However, most of that has been WWII historical fiction. As a lover of history, who just so happens to be married to a social studies educator, history is something I will always enjoy. I always think I know a decent amount, and then my husband will always come up with something that blows my mind. Amanda does the same thing with her books.

When I told my husband I was reading a book about the Battle of Vienna in 1683, he was really excited for me and we talked about the event. It was a good way to get into the book with a basic understanding of the events and how it would have changed Europe if it had gone any other way.

With historical fiction, especially with battles, they can be really heavy. This was not. There were definite moments of seriousness and parts that made my heart drop, but the underlying current of love and hope being intertwined with faith in God, made it seem lighter than the content was. Before the Fortress Falls may be a book about a hard fought battle, but for me it is first and foremost a book about how hope can be a powerful force. I had so many quotes underlined in my copy, I had a hard time choosing when I went to share a teaser.

If you like historical fiction, don't be worried about the timeline. It is exciting to read about. If you like historical romance, there is a splash in it as well, and it is very tastefully done. I really enjoyed that aspect of the book (romance is a great addition to any book). But this book will make you think too.

There was a content warning at the beginning of the book, so I would also say that you have to keep in mind that this is a book that, although is filled with Christian values, is also historical and depicts a real battle, with real events that happened. There is fighting, blood, and gore. But it isn't overwhelming that it makes you sick. If anything, it made me open my eyes to the realities of what war really was like.

This is a book that will be with me all year. I can see it being in my top reads come December. Thank you for the ARC! It was a treasure to read.

I have had this author reccommended to me through Amazon and have seen her books on social media often. So, I have been wanting to give this author a try. I don't feel dissapointed. The story doesn't shy away from the death, hardship and struggles of war but it's neither gory nor graphic in details. I think the writing was thoughtful and well researched making a full and vivid tale. The romance wasn't front and center but a part of the larger story. I enjoyed seeing the different perpectives of the various characters and their unique role they played in this seige. It was interseting to read how a person's culture guides ones persepctive and thinking. Even rationalizing away evil or justying their actions. I loved the historical details woven in. The glossary of terms at the beginning and notes at the end by the author, though not part of the story, very much appreciated by me. Aside from that I just really enjoyed the story and writing. I stayed up way to late to finsh the book. I was able to immerse myself and wrap myself up into the story. The story had a good flow and great action scenes. Though there was tragedy there was also hope and h.e.a.

Before the Fortress Falls by A. L. Sowards is a great example of why I enjoy historical fiction. I get to learn more about a slice of history while reading an intriguing and fascinating story. With obvious impeccable research and a knack for creating colorful, engaging characters, Sowards has written a compelling and riveting fictionalized account of the siege of Vienna in 1683 by the Ottomans. Katja Schor is a courageous, plucky heroine determined to do what she can to help defend her city. While her brother Wilhelm evacuates his family and rides for help from Vienna’s allies, her other brother Xavier returns to the city to fight. Their childhood friend, Toby plays a big part of the story also as he reunites with Katja.

There are several points of view which add different perspectives to the fight. Parts of the story were a little hard for me to read, as they included quite graphic accounts of the fighting action and violence, but the author did a wonderful job of accurately portraying the events without going overboard. Plenty of action, suspense, intrigue, and a dash of romance make this book a memorable read. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Before The Fortress Falls is a book so well researched and well written. It is a historical fiction and historical romance. I love the different perspectives this book offers. One thing I've learned through all of the turmoil of the recent years is there is always a different side to a story. And we can still love and befriend those that don't believe the same as we do. It is relevant and a good insight to the past and a good guide to current events. I loved this book!

Wow. This is historical fiction at its finest! The author did an amazing job of putting the reader right in the middle of every aspect of the Siege of Vienna so we could experience it all. She didn't shy away from the unpleasant and gruesome aspects of war, but she also included hope, courage, and light. The characters were multifaceted and endearing and the plot intriguing and well written. I would definitely recommend this book!

If you like Historical Fiction, you know A.L.Sowards is well researched and provides a story rich with history. This one surpassed my expectations and was so timely in line with what is going on in the world today.

An unprovoked attack. A city full of people willing to pull together to fend off a well established trained foe. An ambassador seeking aid from nearby nations. It is the ultimate underdog story, that proves heart and faith can get you through an impossible situation. While the story was packed with action and interesting history of war tactics, it also included the very human elements faced in war. Sibling relationships, love, loss, the plight of the vulnerable in society. There were moments of triumph, followed by moments of heartache. Sowards created a story of intensity that takes you back into time and opens up your eyes to the plight of the citizens within a city at war. I loved it!

Available April 1! The author is also donating all pre-order and April proceeds towards Ukraine!

Content: lots of war and can be quite graphic to fully tell the story. While there is a romance, it plays a very small part in the story. I wouldn’t classify this as romance, more historical fiction.

Wow. Just WOW. This is my first A.L. Sowards book and it most certainly will not be my last! The combination of wonderful writing, storytelling, and historical events blended so well and made for such a captivating story! I was at the edge of my seat after each chapter!

This story is set in 1683 during the Siege of Vienna. The incredibly large Ottoman army trying to take the city but being held back by a small garrison for about two months until a relief army arrived.

First of all, I love all of the historical details! The way the key points of history were accurately preserved but also how a fictional story was woven in was so well done! Also how a love story was put so tastefully and brilliantly in was really great! It didn’t detract from the main plot but it gave the reader something to root for. Because we all love a happily ever after! And we definitely needed one. This book isn’t necessarily for the faint of heart. It is about war, and battle scenes are a major part of the story. The siege was long and hard and many losses ensued. I won’t spoil anything but there were many characters that I got attached to that didn’t make it to the end…

I LOVED all of the varying points of view, 5 in total, which were absolutely necessary to get the full scope of this story. I like being able to see how each side felt about and viewed the situation. What they all were doing and how history was developing around them all. It really enhanced the experience when reading.

I could probably go on gushing about how much I enjoyed this story but I’ll just say that if you like a really good piece of historical fiction (with a little bit of romance) you should definitely give this a try! I totally recommend!

I received an advanced copy of this book through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Before the Fortress Falls by A.L. Sowards is a beautiful work of historical fiction set in Vienna in 1683. The story revolves around the prominent and affluent Schor family and the role each will play when the Ottoman army takes siege of Vienna. Wilhelm, the eldest, after whisking his family out of harm's way, travels to Poland to enlist the aid of the King and his army in battling the Turks. Xavier, the younger brother, returns to Vienna with the Imperial Army in hopes of holding the city till reinforcements arrive. And Katja, Xavier’s twin sister, turns back to Vienna with her violin in tow, determined to assist her beloved city and the army any way she can. Along her journey, Katja becomes reunited with Toby, a treasured childhood friend.

Katja's life dramatically changes as she sews sandbags and later nurses wounded and broken soldiers, along with the sick who remain in Vienna. She works tirelessly to aid the sisters and doctor while the battle rages all around her. Meanwhile, Xavier leads his men in battle day after day to keep the Turks from gaining ground, while Toby, a master craftsman, becomes a counterminer to thwart the Ottoman army from tunneling through his city. And it is within the confines of Vienna, against all odds of survival, that a tender and fragile love will blossom between Toby and Katja.

From what is happening in Europe, to the battle scenes, to the activity of the counterminers, to the makeshift hospital, everything is done in such an authentic manner in this book. I can’t say enough about the characters too, especially Wilhelm, Xavier, Katja, Toby and Ahmed, just to name a few. They are so genuine and so well written, it enabled me to see the war through their eyes, to feel their frustration, rage and fear. The scenes are raw and emotional and I have to admit I cried at least twice. I usually have a favorite character in most of the books I read and after serious consideration I have to pick Xavier. A beautiful brother and friend, a fierce and loyal soldier, stalwart to the end. If you love historical fiction, Before the Fortress Falls is a book I highly recommend. You will not be disappointed!

I want to thank NetGalley and Covenant Communications for an ARC of Before the Fortress Falls by A.L. Sowards. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

The Ottoman siege of Vienna in 1683 is hardly well-known. A.L. Sowards offers a vivid look at life in the 17th century. The warfare seems savage (although, is it ever not)? The medical care leaves much to be desired. This gives a glimpse of what our ancestors survived.
The Schor family is complex. Older brother Wilhelm was content to allow his wife to push his sister Katja into marriage with a brute old enough to be their father. Katja’s twin Xavier fights for her, fracturing the brothers’ relationship. Katja’s romance with childhood friend Toby provides lightness in the grimness of war.
Definitely worth your read.

Often when I go to historical sites I imagine what it might have been like to have lived there or what people would have done when an event took place. A.L. Sowards has written a fascinating story that places you right in the midst of a crucial time in the history of Vienna. With such gripping detail, I felt like I was sewing sandbags along with Katja, fighting alongside Toby, and feeling the sense of dread as the Turks were bombarding the city. History truly came alive as Katja, her brothers, and Toby all had important parts to play in the destiny of Vienna. Each person had a different role that provided a rich and in depth perspective of the siege.

With poignant events during the siege, I saw what people living during this time would have felt. I loved the healing and reconciliation that took place between Katja’s brothers. Toby and Katja’s tender love story showed that there is hope to continue on, even through the most difficult of circumstances. Death is shown in the battles, but if that is too much for you, you can skim through those details. At points it was intense, but was well done and necessary to show the reality of what was occurring. I recommend reading this richly detailed and interesting book if you like historical fiction or historical romance.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of the book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Words can't do this book justice. It was such a wonderful journey.

This book is all about the 1600's siege of Vienna when the Turks tried to take over the city. The people of Vienna were grossly outnumbered, but in the face of adversity they didn't give up. When the odds were stacked against them, they kept their eyes up and kept on fighting for all that they loved. An absolutely incredible story of faith and hope and miracles.

The author took an incredible war event, and turned it into a flowing, charming story that I find myself wanting to read again and again. This book gave me all the deep feelings. One minute I found myself gripping my seat, the next I found myself laughing. Another minute I would have tears streaming down my cheeks, and the very next I would have the cheesiest of grins on my face.
This book was not only fascinating but resonated hope in hard times even in the face of the impossible. Is that not a message that is ever applicable today?
A giant round of applause to A. L. Sowards for this beautiful and touching work of literary art! This story is an absolute treasure.